ASUMH Honors Outstanding Faculty, Staff, Alumni, and Student Leaders for 2026

Arkansas State University–Mountain Home (ASUMH) proudly recognized four exceptional individuals during its annual awards celebration, honoring excellence in teaching, service, leadership, and community impact through the 2026 Outstanding Faculty, Staff, Alumni, and Academic All-Star awards.

“These honorees represent the very best of ASUMH,” said Dr. Robert Shurley, Provost at ASUMH. “Their commitment to serving students and the community reflects the mission of the university and inspires those around them every day.”

Jessica Clanton was named the 2026 Faculty Member of the Year in recognition of her outstanding dedication to students, innovation in education, and broad service to the college community.

Clanton serves ASUMH in a multitude of impactful ways, most notably as a Physical Science faculty member, where she helps students develop strong scientific thinking and problem-solving skills. Beyond the classroom, she has guided the college’s forward-thinking response to emerging artificial intelligence-related challenges and played a key role in creating the highly successful Astronomy Night held this February.

She is also deeply engaged in Shared Governance and supports numerous campus initiatives, including STREAM, The 300, and STEM student advising. Her leadership, collaboration, and commitment to student success continue to strengthen the ASUMH campus and community.

Nancee Sherick was honored as the 2026 Outstanding Staff Member for her exceptional service and unwavering support of students and colleagues within the School of Technology and Health Sciences.

As Administrative Specialist for the School of Technology and Health Sciences, Sherick provides essential support across Health Sciences programs while serving as a steady and dependable presence during times of growth and change. Her professionalism, organization, and willingness to support colleagues have helped ensure smooth daily operations and a positive environment for students and employees alike.

Her institutional knowledge, attention to detail, and commitment to going above and beyond make her an invaluable member of the ASUMH family.

Joseph Vrechek was named the 2026 Academic All-Star in recognition of his academic achievement, campus leadership, and dedication to service.

Vrechek serves as a Student Ambassador and is actively involved in Phi Theta Kappa, the Fran Coulter Honors Program, the Esports Team, Shared Governance, and the Student Government Association, where he will serve as SGA President for the 2026–27 academic year.

In addition to pursuing academic excellence, he balances work responsibilities, operates his own auto detailing business, and remains active in his church. Following graduation from ASUMH, Vrechek plans to transfer to the University of Arkansas to study Computer Engineering before attending law school. He hopes to become a prosecutor and serve his community through public service.

Brooke Grissum was named the 2026 Alumni of the Year in recognition of her professional achievement, leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and continued commitment to her community and alma mater.

A past Student Ambassador at ASUMH, Grissum currently serves as Interim Director of Admissions and Recruiting at Arkansas State University–Mountain Home. Grissum also continues to give back through active alumni leadership as Vice President of the ASUMH Community Collective (formerly known as the Alumni Association) for the past two years. In addition, she serves on the Baxter County Fair Board and remains deeply involved in community service and outreach efforts.

Through her institutional leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, alumni service, and community involvement, Grissum exemplifies the values and mission of ASUMH while continuing to make a lasting impact on the region.

Founded in 1995, Arkansas State University–Mountain Home (ASUMH) is a comprehensive community college serving North Central Arkansas through high-quality academic programs, workforce education, technical training, and community enrichment opportunities. ASUMH empowers students of all ages to achieve their educational and career goals in a supportive and innovative learning environment.